Cancer Therapists in Arnprior, ON
Amanda Telford
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CTIC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arnprior, ON K7S
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my profile. You have taken a difficult step in exploring your healing and recovery journey. You may be looking for support as you navigate stress, burnout, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver fatigue, ADHD or autism, addictions, and life transitions. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing challenges around communication, intimacy, parenting, elder care, work-life balance, differences in wants, needs, and life goals. Maybe you are a first responder/military/vet seeking a therapist who is truly able to deep dive with you, help regulate intrusive thoughts, and deeply process traumatic events.
Welcome to my profile. You have taken a difficult step in exploring your healing and recovery journey. You may be looking for support as you navigate stress, burnout, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver fatigue, ADHD or autism, addictions, and life transitions. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing challenges around communication, intimacy, parenting, elder care, work-life balance, differences in wants, needs, and life goals. Maybe you are a first responder/military/vet seeking a therapist who is truly able to deep dive with you, help regulate intrusive thoughts, and deeply process traumatic events.
Stittsville Wellness provides a wide array of mental health services offered by certified health professionals. Stittsville Welness offers services to clients of all ages and places focus on well-being from a holistic perspective. We are confident that our team of highly trained mental health professionals can address all your needs within one location or through out extensive network of colleagues.
Stittsville Wellness provides a wide array of mental health services offered by certified health professionals. Stittsville Welness offers services to clients of all ages and places focus on well-being from a holistic perspective. We are confident that our team of highly trained mental health professionals can address all your needs within one location or through out extensive network of colleagues.
Cydney Worsfold-CLM Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arnprior, ON K7S
I believe in an integrated, person-centered approach as I recognize that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all and must be tailored to the specific needs of the individual. I encourage the development of trust, collaboration, and respect through a non-judgmental and down to earth approach, meeting you where you are at, to create a safe and inclusive environment. Trauma can create a profound impact on an individuals mind, body and relationships, but with the right support, I firmly believe that it is possible to grow and heal from trauma, no matter how long ago the trauma may have occurred.
I believe in an integrated, person-centered approach as I recognize that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all and must be tailored to the specific needs of the individual. I encourage the development of trust, collaboration, and respect through a non-judgmental and down to earth approach, meeting you where you are at, to create a safe and inclusive environment. Trauma can create a profound impact on an individuals mind, body and relationships, but with the right support, I firmly believe that it is possible to grow and heal from trauma, no matter how long ago the trauma may have occurred.
MindSpa Mental Health Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arnprior, ON K7S
MindSpa is a premier neurofeedback and psychotherapy centre dedicated to helping individuals achieve balance, healing, and personal growth. We believe in the power of the mind-body connection and strive to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for all our clients. Our team of highly trained and compassionate therapists and neurofeedback specialists are here to guide you on your journey towards emotional well-being and self-discovery. Whether you are seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply looking to enhance your overall mental performance, we have a range of services tailored to meet your specific needs.
MindSpa is a premier neurofeedback and psychotherapy centre dedicated to helping individuals achieve balance, healing, and personal growth. We believe in the power of the mind-body connection and strive to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for all our clients. Our team of highly trained and compassionate therapists and neurofeedback specialists are here to guide you on your journey towards emotional well-being and self-discovery. Whether you are seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply looking to enhance your overall mental performance, we have a range of services tailored to meet your specific needs.
Online Therapists
Jennifer de Wet Turner
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , CRPO, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V (Online Only)
I am an experienced Registered Psychotherapist with an M.A. in Counselling Psychology. I specialize in individual and family issues, couples counselling, grief work and supporting the challenges of living with cancer and dealing with dying. As a therapist, cancer patient, and the mother of six children, my life experience and training has taught me the value of working with each person as a unique, dynamic individual. I have personal experience raising children to adulthood, navigating the challenges and rewards of being in long-term relationships, and dealing with loss, illness and death.
I am an experienced Registered Psychotherapist with an M.A. in Counselling Psychology. I specialize in individual and family issues, couples counselling, grief work and supporting the challenges of living with cancer and dealing with dying. As a therapist, cancer patient, and the mother of six children, my life experience and training has taught me the value of working with each person as a unique, dynamic individual. I have personal experience raising children to adulthood, navigating the challenges and rewards of being in long-term relationships, and dealing with loss, illness and death.
Kelly Tabor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G
Waitlist for new clients
Trusting yourself and seeking support takes courage. If you're impacted by stressful life events or struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings, and looking for a comfortable compassionate space to process, heal, and develop new insights and skills, therapeutic support can be a way forward. I provide therapeutic support to individuals navigating a variety of challenging life experiences including anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, life or family transitions, and to those impacted by chronic illness or cancer, whether a personal diagnosis, a family member, friend, or caregiver.
Trusting yourself and seeking support takes courage. If you're impacted by stressful life events or struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings, and looking for a comfortable compassionate space to process, heal, and develop new insights and skills, therapeutic support can be a way forward. I provide therapeutic support to individuals navigating a variety of challenging life experiences including anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, life or family transitions, and to those impacted by chronic illness or cancer, whether a personal diagnosis, a family member, friend, or caregiver.
Treatment areas: anxiety, depression, emotions, grief, burnout, ADHD, relationships of all kinds, trauma, gender-based violence, sexual assault, abuse/neglect, narcissistic abuse, intimacy/authenticity, meaning & purpose, sexuality, women's issues, feminist & anti-oppression, LGBTQ+/queer, cancer, chronic illness, existential, yoga & martial arts-informed.
I am a Ph.D. Registered Psychotherapist practicing at, and directing, Ottawa Psychotherapy Center (ottawapsychotherapycenter.com). I use evidence-based interventions to resolve difficulties in the now, while promoting growth overall. I see myself make the most meaningful contributions in Crisis & Trauma, which first called me to the profession over a decade ago, and for advancing Self-Growth & Self-Development through emotional, relational, professional, somatic, spiritual, or sexual focus. I also research, teach & train so that I, too, can continue to grow.
Treatment areas: anxiety, depression, emotions, grief, burnout, ADHD, relationships of all kinds, trauma, gender-based violence, sexual assault, abuse/neglect, narcissistic abuse, intimacy/authenticity, meaning & purpose, sexuality, women's issues, feminist & anti-oppression, LGBTQ+/queer, cancer, chronic illness, existential, yoga & martial arts-informed.
I am a Ph.D. Registered Psychotherapist practicing at, and directing, Ottawa Psychotherapy Center (ottawapsychotherapycenter.com). I use evidence-based interventions to resolve difficulties in the now, while promoting growth overall. I see myself make the most meaningful contributions in Crisis & Trauma, which first called me to the profession over a decade ago, and for advancing Self-Growth & Self-Development through emotional, relational, professional, somatic, spiritual, or sexual focus. I also research, teach & train so that I, too, can continue to grow.
It is possible to find resilience and meaningful new paths - even with difficulties such as anxious or depressed feelings, control over emotions, LGBTQIA2S+ issues, relationship crises, feeling lost or without sense of meaning, past traumatic experience, aging, surviving cancer, or dealing with loss. I care that women find ways to go out into the world to fulfill themselves, that being queer is defined by the story of self, and that the grip of negative feelings is relaxed so solutions can emerge toward self-growth and self-development.
It is possible to find resilience and meaningful new paths - even with difficulties such as anxious or depressed feelings, control over emotions, LGBTQIA2S+ issues, relationship crises, feeling lost or without sense of meaning, past traumatic experience, aging, surviving cancer, or dealing with loss. I care that women find ways to go out into the world to fulfill themselves, that being queer is defined by the story of self, and that the grip of negative feelings is relaxed so solutions can emerge toward self-growth and self-development.
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
I provide online therapy services to Youth and Adults who experience Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss. As a breast cancer survivor I also offer specialized sessions supporting those navigating the breast cancer journey.
I provide online therapy services to Youth and Adults who experience Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss. As a breast cancer survivor I also offer specialized sessions supporting those navigating the breast cancer journey.
My areas of specialization are relationship issues, grief & bereavement, palliative care, HIV/AIDS/Cancer, coming out, internalized homophobia, transgender issues, addiction recovery, and codependency.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
My areas of specialization are relationship issues, grief & bereavement, palliative care, HIV/AIDS/Cancer, coming out, internalized homophobia, transgender issues, addiction recovery, and codependency.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B (Online Only)
I also support clients with chronic health concerns including auto-immune diagnoses and cancer.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
I also support clients with chronic health concerns including auto-immune diagnoses and cancer.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
Jennifer Finestone
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A (Online Only)
Are you facing cancer, bereavement, or a major life transition? Do you struggle with self-esteem or feel like you're 'not enough'? Are you struggling to manage anxiety and sadness stemming from covid-19 or life in general? I can help. We will work together so that you can feel more grounded, less anxious, and more empowered. Life isn't easy. There will always be challenges that throw us for a loop. It can help to have someone to support you through it. I will be there to listen, encourage, and occasionally challenge but never judge.
Are you facing cancer, bereavement, or a major life transition? Do you struggle with self-esteem or feel like you're 'not enough'? Are you struggling to manage anxiety and sadness stemming from covid-19 or life in general? I can help. We will work together so that you can feel more grounded, less anxious, and more empowered. Life isn't easy. There will always be challenges that throw us for a loop. It can help to have someone to support you through it. I will be there to listen, encourage, and occasionally challenge but never judge.
Grief counselling is my specialty. The death of a loved one is so hard and no-one prepares you for what grief looks like. I work collaboratively, at your pace, providing a safe non-judgmental space for clients to be heard and to support you in drawing upon your own strengths in order to mourn well. My professional experiences stem from working as a Social Worker and a Therapist for over 25 years in hospice palliative care, community organizations, and in private practice. I also provide counselling for those caring for a loved one at the end of life.
Grief counselling is my specialty. The death of a loved one is so hard and no-one prepares you for what grief looks like. I work collaboratively, at your pace, providing a safe non-judgmental space for clients to be heard and to support you in drawing upon your own strengths in order to mourn well. My professional experiences stem from working as a Social Worker and a Therapist for over 25 years in hospice palliative care, community organizations, and in private practice. I also provide counselling for those caring for a loved one at the end of life.
My ideal person to work with is one who has done some personal work already and is wanting to dive deeper. I am often sought out when people have been through the system and are looking for a more compassionate and empowering perspective than what is often offered. Without condoning or promoting the use of any substances, I do work from a harm reduction perspective and support prep and integration of psychedelic experiences as well as harm reduction coaching and consulting for microdosing. I do group ceremonies with breathwork and come from an anti-oppression framework.
My ideal person to work with is one who has done some personal work already and is wanting to dive deeper. I am often sought out when people have been through the system and are looking for a more compassionate and empowering perspective than what is often offered. Without condoning or promoting the use of any substances, I do work from a harm reduction perspective and support prep and integration of psychedelic experiences as well as harm reduction coaching and consulting for microdosing. I do group ceremonies with breathwork and come from an anti-oppression framework.
Optimal Life Mental Health Strategies
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
I welcome clients dealing with depression, anxiety and difficulty coping with stress in their professional and personal lives. Is work making you feel like "the salary isn't worth the pain and suffering"? Has the romance in your relationship flatlined? Lost the joy of parenthood? Feel like your family does not appreciate you? Feeling out of control? Confused about your sexuality? Has the light gone out of your life? I can help you find that raison d'être, joie de vivre again to help you once again ENJOY just being alive, being YOU!
I welcome clients dealing with depression, anxiety and difficulty coping with stress in their professional and personal lives. Is work making you feel like "the salary isn't worth the pain and suffering"? Has the romance in your relationship flatlined? Lost the joy of parenthood? Feel like your family does not appreciate you? Feeling out of control? Confused about your sexuality? Has the light gone out of your life? I can help you find that raison d'être, joie de vivre again to help you once again ENJOY just being alive, being YOU!
Mary Jane Beavis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It takes courage to begin taking steps toward starting therapy. Has your life become too overwhelming and stressful to manage alone? Are you nervous, grieving and feeling down? I have been there, too, and feeling anxious and afraid is normal. As your therapist, I will walk with you on your healing journey. A safe and supportive ambiance would be created where we can share openly and address your concerns. I want to help you, especially if you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, or trauma. If you are open to working with me, we could develop a personalized treatment plan aligning with your goals.
It takes courage to begin taking steps toward starting therapy. Has your life become too overwhelming and stressful to manage alone? Are you nervous, grieving and feeling down? I have been there, too, and feeling anxious and afraid is normal. As your therapist, I will walk with you on your healing journey. A safe and supportive ambiance would be created where we can share openly and address your concerns. I want to help you, especially if you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, or trauma. If you are open to working with me, we could develop a personalized treatment plan aligning with your goals.
I have over 10 years of experience working with people struggling with a broad range of issues, including anxiety, feeling low or depressed, trauma, relationship problems, family concerns, or parenting challenges. I will provide you with a comfortable and safe space to share your concerns and I would happily stand with you to reach your goals.
I have over 10 years of experience working with people struggling with a broad range of issues, including anxiety, feeling low or depressed, trauma, relationship problems, family concerns, or parenting challenges. I will provide you with a comfortable and safe space to share your concerns and I would happily stand with you to reach your goals.
Christine Keown
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S (Online Only)
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I am able to work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience, both in a counselling and teaching capacity, and in my years of schooling I also did a concentration in special education and worked in several positions as a respite worker. I still work a fair bit with intellectual and developmental disabilities in my practice and enjoy this work very much.
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I am able to work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience, both in a counselling and teaching capacity, and in my years of schooling I also did a concentration in special education and worked in several positions as a respite worker. I still work a fair bit with intellectual and developmental disabilities in my practice and enjoy this work very much.
Ayen Paul Mabor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
My name is Ayen Mabor, I have over 20 years of experience in the counselling field. I am a registered Social Worker, with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. My approach to counselling is influenced by several theories primarily, Person Centered, Solutions focused, Strength-based approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy. My life experiences led me to Social work, and through that, I discovered my love for counselling. Being a Black refugee from South Sudan, has provided me with a unique lens from which I view individuals and social systems.
My name is Ayen Mabor, I have over 20 years of experience in the counselling field. I am a registered Social Worker, with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. My approach to counselling is influenced by several theories primarily, Person Centered, Solutions focused, Strength-based approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy. My life experiences led me to Social work, and through that, I discovered my love for counselling. Being a Black refugee from South Sudan, has provided me with a unique lens from which I view individuals and social systems.
Do you feel lost, or as though you don’t know what you’re doing? Are you seeking help with challenges in your personal and professional life? Do you want support but don’t know where to start? Life is a roller-coaster full of ups and downs, and we all need relief from the bumpy ride to find and maintain clarity. During this process, I will guide you in a confidential and judgment-free safe space. Whether you feel confused, afraid, excited, overwhelmed, or curious, we will work together to dig deep and ensure your needs are addressed efficiently and effectively.
Do you feel lost, or as though you don’t know what you’re doing? Are you seeking help with challenges in your personal and professional life? Do you want support but don’t know where to start? Life is a roller-coaster full of ups and downs, and we all need relief from the bumpy ride to find and maintain clarity. During this process, I will guide you in a confidential and judgment-free safe space. Whether you feel confused, afraid, excited, overwhelmed, or curious, we will work together to dig deep and ensure your needs are addressed efficiently and effectively.
Tiina Kivinen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K (Online Only)
People I work with are often seeking help for feelings of overwhelm or emotional pain and stress. Some are managing anxiety or depression, while others are healing from past trauma or looking for tools to build resilience and personal growth. The path toward holistic well-being is something we can walk together. I focus on helping you build internal safety and restore the wellness that is your birthright, using diverse approaches, including mindfulness and hypnotherapy. Together, we'll open doors to new possibilities for healing and growth. In our sessions, we'll work together to make your life tangibly better.
People I work with are often seeking help for feelings of overwhelm or emotional pain and stress. Some are managing anxiety or depression, while others are healing from past trauma or looking for tools to build resilience and personal growth. The path toward holistic well-being is something we can walk together. I focus on helping you build internal safety and restore the wellness that is your birthright, using diverse approaches, including mindfulness and hypnotherapy. Together, we'll open doors to new possibilities for healing and growth. In our sessions, we'll work together to make your life tangibly better.
What's your story? I was asked that question not too many years ago when I was going through my own major life transition, one that would take me from a life as a teacher and editor to this second chapter as a psychotherapist. I had heard the phrase many times in life but at that moment of change it resonated more deeply than ever before. Our lives are our stories, and they have chapters, episodes, plot twists... You might be feeling your story is changing, maybe you've just experienced the whole plot unravelling. Maybe you're ready to start again. Maybe you're too tired and scared to look at the next page.
What's your story? I was asked that question not too many years ago when I was going through my own major life transition, one that would take me from a life as a teacher and editor to this second chapter as a psychotherapist. I had heard the phrase many times in life but at that moment of change it resonated more deeply than ever before. Our lives are our stories, and they have chapters, episodes, plot twists... You might be feeling your story is changing, maybe you've just experienced the whole plot unravelling. Maybe you're ready to start again. Maybe you're too tired and scared to look at the next page.
Leticia Osei
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN,BScN, (she), (her)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
Has life's stressors and uncertainties left you feeling anxious and depressed? Do you often ask yourself “why me” or “will this pain and suffering ever go away”? Your feelings and thoughts are valid. My lived experience as a trauma survivor has shaped my understanding of how trauma negatively affects the mind, body, and spirit. As a registered nurse, I have seen firsthand how unresolved trauma can manifest as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or eating disorders. Through a mindfulness and empowering approach, I will accompany you on your healing journey by providing you with a safe, and supportive atmosphere.
Has life's stressors and uncertainties left you feeling anxious and depressed? Do you often ask yourself “why me” or “will this pain and suffering ever go away”? Your feelings and thoughts are valid. My lived experience as a trauma survivor has shaped my understanding of how trauma negatively affects the mind, body, and spirit. As a registered nurse, I have seen firsthand how unresolved trauma can manifest as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or eating disorders. Through a mindfulness and empowering approach, I will accompany you on your healing journey by providing you with a safe, and supportive atmosphere.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). For 24 years, I have worked as an Intensive Marriage and Couples Therapist with my husband David Rubinstein, MA, RP. I now also maintain a busy Individual counselling practice for women, blending my experience as a Couple Therapist with Energy Psychology protocols. I work with women of all ages to enhance self-esteem, create secure relationships, and cope with traumatic loss. I also specialize in helping women over 60 to overcome late-in-life challenges, find new meaning and purpose, live vibrantly, and enjoy aging gracefully.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). For 24 years, I have worked as an Intensive Marriage and Couples Therapist with my husband David Rubinstein, MA, RP. I now also maintain a busy Individual counselling practice for women, blending my experience as a Couple Therapist with Energy Psychology protocols. I work with women of all ages to enhance self-esteem, create secure relationships, and cope with traumatic loss. I also specialize in helping women over 60 to overcome late-in-life challenges, find new meaning and purpose, live vibrantly, and enjoy aging gracefully.
See more therapy options for Arnprior
Nearby Cancer Counsellors Searches for Arnprior
- Carleton Place
- Gloucester
- Kanata
- Kemptville
- Manotick
- Merrickville
- Nepean
- Ottawa
- Perth
- Renfrew
- Smiths Falls
- Stittsville
Cancer Counsellors
How does cancer affect mental health?
A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.
What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?
The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?
Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counselling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.
How long does cancer therapy typically last?
The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.